Two arrested in assault on bus driver

An appeal by police for help in identifying two young males seen in a surveillance video arguing with a SEPTA bus driver - before one started beating the driver - has resulted in the arrest of two teenagers.

The video, made public yesterday, was accompanied by this appeal from Lt. Frank Vanore, a police spokesman: "They're two thugs, obviously, and we really need to get them off the streets."

Today, Vanore said the public responded with numerous tips, one of which resulted in arrest warrants.

One suspect, a 17-year-old whose name was not released, was arrested yesterday at his home in the 2000 block of Anchor Street in the Wissinoming section. Vanore said that suspect was the one seen on the video repeatedly punching the driver on the head and face.

His friend, identified as Carlos Masip, 18, of the 6300 block of Algon Avenue in the Oxford Circle neighborhood, surrendered to officers in the 15th Police District tonight.

Both teens face charges of robbery and assault.

Police said the attack happened April 2. The footage shows two young men getting on a No. 124 bus about 9 p.m. at the King of Prussia mall.

They paid part of the fare and began arguing with the 47-year-old driver about the price, Vanore said.

After a lengthy dispute, the driver told them they could sit and pay the rest when they reached their destination.

About an hour later, at 12th and Market Streets, the driver told them to pay less than $3 each as they were leaving, authorities said. That was when a second argument began that culminated with one teen's repeatedly punching the driver.